The Spirit Of Giving: A Dozen Who've Made A Difference

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Easily the biggest philanthropist in the IT industry, Gates topped Forbes' "World's Biggest Givers" list this year. Microsoft's co-founder, with a net worth of $66 billion, has donated $28 billion so far, according to Forbes. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation supports a variety of health, educational and agricultural efforts in 100 countries, including $112 million to Save the Children for saving newborns and $456 million for a malaria vaccine initiative.

With renowned investor Warren Buffett, Gates and his wife, Melinda, launched the Giving Pledge in 2010. Ninety-three billionaire families have signed the pledge, committing to give the majority of their wealth to philanthropic causes.